Glentoran veteran McCann retires

Tim McCann is in his second spell with Glentoran

Glentoran's Tim McCann has been forced to retire because of knee injuries.

The former Cliftonville and Ballymena United winger made a remarkable return to the Glens side last season after an 18-month battle with cruciate problems.

However, after fighting his way back into the starting line-up, the 36-year-old ruptured ligaments in his left knee last week against Glenavon.

"Time is not on my side as a player. It would not be fair to my family to put them through it again," said McCann.

Interview: Tim McCann

"To have played once again for Glentoran was something special. I am just sorry I will not be able to see out the season with the team."

McCann won two league championships with Glentoran and one with Cliftonville.

He was in his second spell as the Oval after staying at the club from 1998 to 2004.

All told he won 16 major honours, 13 at the Oval and three with the Reds, including rare back-to-back Premier League honours with each club.